So what's the answer? Map it and make it more IMBA appropriate and therefore protect it? Or keep doing it the way it has always been done? I just don't know the answer to that one. I don't know enough about IMBA/Forestry relations/regulations. Anyone? Bueller?One more thought. AnonyMouse, give it a break.

I'm for legitimizing trails and getting them protected. The reality is that use of public lands will always be increasing. If we want areas to ride we have to get these trails "recognized" by the agencies that are responsible for governing the land they are on.

The argument that we should keep the trails secret so no attention is called to them is unrealistic and tragically short sighted

Big picture, it goes beyond giving DCNR a map with a bunch of squiggly lines on it and asking them to protect it. Once a trail becomes 'official', it is inventoried, and as a result of that, it will now be a 'resource.' Since it is now a 'resource' for the state, it then has to be managed. Which is an increased workload on the already budget strapped local 'managers,' who happen to be the first point of advocacy contact.....Do you think they really want to add to their workload, when it's easier to just post a 'No Bikes' sign and ignore it, ala CommService, or just cut it all down and ignore it? It's an uphill battle.

Regarding this particular harvest, the prospectus is out there and any chance of preserving those existing corridors is probably long gone...enjoy 'em while they're there....probably won't start yanking trees out there for at least a year.

Honestly, I think we could see logging start as early as this winter or next spring. Earlier this summer, a timber sale went out to bid off Peach Orchard Rd in Beetem Hollow. They have been actively logging there now for at least the past month. Depends on the company that wins the bid.